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GUIDE

Business premises: Everything you need to know

Business premises: Everything you need to know

Posted: Fri 30th Aug 2024

42 min read

As entrepreneurship in the UK continues to evolve, more small business owners are moving from purely online operations to physical locations.

Taking steps toward securing business premises is a significant milestone for any founder – whether you're selling handmade goods on Etsy or running a consultancy from your spare room.

Choosing the ideal place for your business to trade from can give your brand more credibility and create a better experience for customers and staff alike.

If you're a new entrepreneur, launching a business from physical premises might give you the structure and visibility you need to grow with confidence.

That said, there's a lot you need to know you before you sign a lease or invest in a building.

This guide covers everything from types of business spaces to legal responsibilities, sources of finance and practical tips specific to the UK market.

Contents

1. What are business premises?

Business premises are any kind of physical space from which a business operates. Examples include:

  • high-street shops

  • offices

  • studios

  • warehouses

  • pop-up stalls

In essence, it's the place where business happens – outside of the home or away from the digital world.

Most new entrepreneurs start small, which usually means working from home or operating completely online. But as a business grows – or reaches the point that it needs to serve customers in person – finding dedicated premises becomes more crucial.

Having business premises doesn't only give you space to work. It's a place you can use to store goods and meet clients. It also suggests you're a professional outfit with a future.

What "premises" also covers

The term "premises" doesn't just include places that customers visit. It also encompasses:

  • back-end spaces such as warehouses, where online businesses store their stock

  • production studios where creative businesses do their work

  • shared office spaces for businesses that provide a service

What's really important is that the premises you find support the type of business you run, and how you want to expand in the future.

From a legal and financial point of view, business premises are treated differently to residential property.

There are commercial tenancy laws to abide by, on top of a duty to pay business rates, arrange insurance and apply for certain planning permission. As such, you must understand exactly what you're getting into before taking the plunge.

In the sections that follow, we'll break down the types of premises available to small businesses, how to choose one that's suitable, the financing options that exist and the legal details you can't afford to overlook.

2. When do you need business premises?

Deciding when to move into premises is a huge step that you must consider carefully.

  • For some businesses, having physical premises is essential from day one.

  • For others – particularly those that start online or in the founder's home – the need arises over time as operations expand.

Understanding when to make this move can spare you unnecessary expense and help you avoid missing out on opportunities.

Below, we explore the most common scenarios that suggest it's time to look for premises for your business.

Reason #1: You're launching a new business that needs premises right away

Some businesses simply can't operate without a physical location. If you're planning to open a restaurant, gym, art studio or day-care centre, business premises will be fundamental to your business plan.

If you're new to running a business, you'll need to know how to assess viable locations, local competition and demand, and planning regulations – long before signing a lease or fitting out the space. Choosing the right premises early can be the foundation for sustainable growth.

Reason #2: You're running out of space at home

One of the first signs you may need premises is when your home can no longer accommodate your business.

You might reach a point where you have stock piling up in your living room, paperwork overtaking the kitchen or craft supplies spilling out of your garage.

Not having the proper space to run your business can hinder productivity and risk you looking unprofessional.

For product-based businesses – especially those dealing with stock, equipment or packing materials – a warehouse or storage-based business premises may become a necessity to operate efficiently.

Reason #3: You want to create a customer-facing experience

If your business model involves face-to-face interaction – perhaps you run a hair salon, coffee shop or clothes boutique – you'll need physical premises that are accessible, comfortable and easy to get to.

Potential customers are far more likely to trust and use your businesses if you can offer a visible and professional place for them to visit.

Having a dedicated space also lets you take advantage of branding techniques, which are vital for setting yourself apart on a competitive high street or retail park.

Reason #4: Your team is growing

As your business scales, you may need to bring people in. While remote working is now widespread in the UK, some businesses run better when employees can collaborate in person.

If you're hiring staff or contractors who need to work together, you'll need office space, meeting rooms or even flexible co-working premises.

Beyond logistics, having a physical base can improve morale and communication and help develop a good company culture.

Reason #5: You want to appear more legitimate or strengthen your brand presence

Operating from a proper business address – and not your home – can significantly boost your brand's credibility.

It also allows you to appear in Google Maps, local directories and UK business listings, which are essential for allowing people to find you.

In some sectors, especially business-to-business (B2B) services, having business premises makes clients more likely to trust you. It can also help you win bigger contracts.

Reason #6: You need premises by law

In certain industries, there are strict regulations that require specific types of premises. For example:

  • food businesses often need commercial kitchens that the local authority has inspected and approved

  • childcare providers must meet conditions relating to safety and space

  • clinics or salons may need inspection-ready premises to meet local health and safety regulations

Before you choose premises, always check with your local authority or relevant regulatory body to make sure the property meets the necessary standard.

Reason #7: You want to separate work from your personal life

While many entrepreneurs start from home, maintaining a healthy work-life balance can become difficult as your business expands.

Having dedicated business premises creates a clear boundary between your professional and personal spaces, which means you're less likely to burn out and better able to focus.

Is it too soon? A note of caution

It's tempting to dive into a shiny new office or shop, but physical premises come with fixed costs and long-term commitments. You should only make the move when:

  • your cash flow can support the extra ongoing costs

  • you've established that there's demand in the market

  • you've done a location feasibility study

  • you have a clear business case for the space

 

A laughing Black male and female couple standing in their restaurant 

3. Types of business premises available in the UK

When you're picking out premises, you should be seeking a space that fits your operational needs, meets customers' expectations and supports your long-term goals.

There's a wide range of premises for business, ranging from high-street retail units to flexible co-working spaces.

Below, we explore the main types available, their pros and cons and when each type of premises makes the most sense.

High-street shops

Ideal for: Retail businesses, cafés, salons, hairdressers, estate agents and other walk-in services.

Pros

  • High footfall and visibility

  • Great for brand awareness and impulse purchases

  • Suitable for businesses that rely on local traffic

Cons

  • Generally higher rental costs

  • Business rates can be significant (although some small businesses qualify for relief)

  • Competition from nearby businesses

Tip: Consider areas eligible for business rates relief, or Enterprise Zones, especially if you're opening in a town centre with regeneration funding.

Offices

Ideal for: Professional services, admin-heavy businesses, consultancies and small tech firms.

Options include traditional office leases, serviced offices (for example, Regus, Spaces) and shared offices and co-working hubs.

Pros

  • Professional image for client meetings

  • Space to grow a team

  • Flexible options with serviced or co-working spaces

Cons

  • Traditional office leases can lock you in for several years

  • Serviced offices may have higher monthly fees

Tip: Many local councils offer subsidised office spaces in innovation centres or business hubs, particularly for start-ups and creative firms.

Industrial units and warehouses

Ideal for: E-commerce sellers, manufacturers, mechanics, tradespeople and wholesalers.

Pros

  • Ample space for stock, production or vehicles

  • Often located near key transport links

  • Can be adapted for specific industrial needs

Cons

  • Usually located outside town centres (which means lower footfall)

  • May require specialist fit-outs

  • Planning permission may be needed for certain uses

Tip: Be sure to check the property's use class (for example, B2 or B8) and whether you'll need a change-of-use application with your local planning authority.

Co-working spaces and business incubators

Ideal for: Start-ups, freelancers and consultants.

Pros

  • Flexible month-to-month terms

  • Opportunities to network with other entrepreneurs

  • Access to meeting rooms, event spaces and shared amenities

Cons

  • Not suitable for retail businesses or those that have a lot of stock

  • Limited privacy and ability to customise

Tip: Look into incubator programmes funded by UK universities or the British Business Bank. Many offer low-cost premises for entrepreneurs, alongside mentoring and general business support.

Pop-up shops or short-term leases

Ideal for: Testing new markets, seasonal products, product launches or brand exposure.

Pros

  • Low commitment

  • Great for market testing and promotions

  • Affordable entry into retail

Cons

  • Short-term exposure may limit long-term revenue

  • Less control over layout and branding

Tip: Use platforms like Appear Here or Popupshops.com to find short-term retail space in UK cities and shopping centres.

Home-based premises (with alterations)

Ideal for: Freelancers, online sellers, virtual assistants, tutors and consultants starting out.

Pros

  • Very low overheads

  • Flexible working hours

  • No commute

Cons

  • Limited ability to scale

  • May not look professional

Tip: If you run your business from home, you may still need to inform your local council or mortgage lender, and you might need planning permission depending on the nature of your work.

Mobile or shared business premises

Examples include: Market stalls, food trucks, shared kitchens, beauty room rentals within salons.

Pros

  • Flexible and cheaper than permanent premises

  • Great for building early traction

Cons

  • May restrict your operating hours or brand identity

  • Challenges relating to storage and logistics

Tip: Check your local authority's licensing rules and pitch fees for street trading or shared facilities.

How to choose suitable premises for you

When comparing types of business premises, ask yourself these questions:

  • What is the main function of the space (retail, production, admin and so on)?

  • Do customers or clients need to visit me?

  • How much space do I need now – and how soon will that grow?

  • What's my budget and can it absorb rent, business rates and utilities?

  • What flexibility do I need in case the business changes direction?

4. Legal considerations and obligations

Before you sign any contracts or move into your new space, you must be aware of your legal responsibilities.

In the UK, there are very specific rules governing commercial premises, and failing to abide by them can lead to expensive legal issues or even force you to leave the property.

This section explains the main laws and regulations every UK business owner needs to know when taking on premises for business.

Lease or buy: Which is better for you?

Leasing

This is the most popular option for small firms that are launching out of physical premises.

Signing a lease gives you the right to occupy a business property for a set amount of time, typically three to 10 years.

Pros

  • Lower upfront cost compared to buying

  • Flexibility to relocate if the business grows or changes

  • The landlord may cover some maintenance costs

Cons

  • Long-term financial commitment

  • Limited ability to change the space

  • Rent reviews may increase costs over time

Buying

Buying a freehold commercial property gives you complete control and becomes a business asset.

However, it does carry a higher cost initially, and can present some risk if your financial prospects falter.

The importance of legal advice

Don't sign a lease or agree to buy a property without first getting legal advice from a solicitor who specialises in commercial property law.

The Landlord and Tenant Act 1954 lays out many of the rights and renewals around commercial leases in the UK – so it's crucial that you understand your situation.

Commercial tenancy agreements: Things to watch out for

A commercial lease is a legally binding contract. Always review these important clauses:

  • Term length and break clauses: Do you have some flexibility if things change?

  • Rent and rent reviews: Is the rent a set amount or will it be reviewed (and possibly increased) every so often?

  • Service charges: Who pays for upkeep, cleaning and repairs?

  • Repairs and alterations: Are structural repairs your responsibility? Can you make alterations to the property?

  • Use clause: Is your specific type of business activity allowed under the lease?

Heads of terms may be agreed first and aren't legally binding. However, they do set out the main terms of the lease, so pay them close attention.

Tip: The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) offers guidance for small business tenants. You may also think about opting for a lease with security of tenure, as this gives you some protection when your lease expires.

Planning permission and change of use

Commercial properties in the UK are categorised under specific use classes, such as:

  • Class E: Most retail, office, café, and gym uses

  • Class B2/B8: Industrial and warehouse use

  • Sui generis: Pubs, hot food takeaways, nightclubs and so on

If the premises you're interested in don't fit the business activity you have planned, you might need to submit a change of use application with your local planning authority.

For example, converting a former bank into a beauty salon would likely need approval, whereas opening a takeaway in what used to be a shop may be classified as sui generis – for which you'd need planning consent.

Tip: Use the Planning Portal to check the use class of a property and, if necessary, apply for permission.

Business rates and taxes

Business rates are a local tax charged on most non-domestic properties. They're calculated based on the rateable value set by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA).

  • If your premises have a rateable value of £12,000 or less, you may qualify for small business rate relief and pay nothing.

  • Tapered relief may apply for properties up to £15,000.

  • You usually pay business rates directly to your local council.

Tip: Before you say yes to a property, always check its rateable value. Some landlords may advertise a "low rent" but not mention high business rates.

Health and safety and insurance

Once you start using premises for business, you become responsible for the health and safety of anyone on the premises – employees, customers, contractors and visitors.

As part of this responsibility, you must make sure there is:

  • a written risk assessment

  • sufficient fire safety equipment and exits

  • signs warning of health and safety risks

  • accessible facilities for disabled customers and staff (as per the Equality Act 2010)

When it comes to business insurance, here are some of the policies you may need:

  • Public liability insurance – in case a customer is injured on your premises

  • Employer's liability insurance – compulsory if you employ staff

  • Buildings and contents insurance – especially if your landlord doesn't cover this

Tip: Many small businesses arrange combined business insurance policies that cover a number of different risks at a discounted cost.

Registering your premises

Depending on the type of business you run and the industry in which you operate, you may need to:

  • register your property with HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)

  • inform your local council (for example, if you're a food business)

  • apply for specific licences (for example, to serve alcohol, play music or provide beauty treatments)

If you don't register properly, you could receive a fine or be forced to close.

 

The older female owner of a cafe in a brown apron, standing with arms folded and smiling 

5. Options for financing your business premises

While choosing the right location for your business can make all the difference, it's also one of the most expensive decisions you'll make.

Knowing what range of financing options you have available to you, and how to use your budget smartly, is crucial. This is the case whether you're renting a shop or buying an office.

This section explores the costs involved in setting up business premises, the types of finance you can get, and practical ways to make sure the whole process is affordable.

What does it cost to set up business premises?

Before you think about how you're going to fund your move into premises, you need to know what costs are involved. These include the following:

  • Deposit (typically three to six months' rent in advance)

  • Monthly rent or mortgage payments

  • Legal fees (for solicitors, surveyors and so on)

  • Business rates

  • Service charges

  • Utilities and energy costs (such as electricity, water, internet, cleaning)

  • Costs of fitting out or renovating the space

  • Furniture and equipment

  • Insurance premiums

Hidden costs to watch out for:

  • VAT on rent (check whether your landlord has chosen to impose this tax)

  • Costs for dilapidation (restoring the premises to its original condition once your lease has ended)

  • Costs for meeting health and safety standards or installing and maintaining security systems

Financing options for leasing business premises

If you've decided to lease rather than buy, you won't need the large chunk of money to purchase a property in full. However, you'll still have significant upfront and monthly costs to cover.

Here are your main ways to get that funding.

1. Start Up Loans

  • Government-backed, unsecured personal loans of up to £25,000.

  • Fixed interest rate of 6% with repayment terms of up to five years.

  • Comes with free business mentoring and support.

  • Ideal for new businesses under three years old.

2. Traditional business loans

  • Available from high-street banks like Barclays, NatWest, Lloyds and HSBC.

  • Lenders typically ask to see a business plan and cash flow forecasts.

  • You may have to put up assets as security.

3. Grants and local authority schemes

  • Many local councils provide support for businesses opening physical premises, especially on high streets or in areas of regeneration.

  • Some devolved government programmes in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland provide capital grants.

4. Asset finance

  • Handy if you need to buy furniture, equipment or signage for your premises.

  • Allows you to spread the cost over time.

5. Crowdfunding or community investment

  • Suitable for community-focused businesses (such as cafés, co-ops or creative hubs)

  • You're able to raise money in return for early perks, equity or goodwill.

Financing options for buying business premises

Buying business premises gives you complete control and the chance to watch the equity grow over the long term.

However, purchasing does mean you need more capital and you must do the proper due diligence.

1. Business mortgages

  • Usually up to 70% to 75% loan-to-value (so you'll need a deposit of 25% to 30% of the purchase price).

  • Repayment terms ranging from five to 25 years.

  • Interest rates vary (fixed or variable).

  • You can arrange them through high-street banks or specialist commercial lenders.

2. Bridging loans

  • This is short-term finance you use to buy a property quickly, before you've had the chance to arrange long-term funding.

  • Useful if you're buying at auction or need to get things up and running urgently.

  • They carry higher interest rates, so use them with caution.

3. Self-invested personal pension (SIPP)

  • If you're established, you can buy business premises through your pension fund.

  • Rent is paid back into the SIPP tax-free.

  • It's quite complex, so you should seek financial advice before you opt for it.

Useful guidance for managing the cost of business premises

  • Negotiate rent-free periods: To help with the costs of setting up, a lot of landlords offer three to six months rent-free at the beginning of a lease.

  • Sublet space you're not using: With your landlord's permission, you might be able to sublet part of your property if it's bigger than you need.

  • Start with flexible or shared space: If you're not sure whether operating out of premises is viable for your business long-term, consider co-working spaces or short-term licences.

  • Use business banking tools: Tools like cash flow forecasting apps can help you with financial planning and making sure your monthly payments are affordable.

  • Speak to a commercial mortgage broker: They can find specialist lenders and better deals than if you went directly to your bank for funding.

Check for Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs)

In England, LEPs are now run by local authorities rather than central government. They can support business owners with getting access to business grants, subsidised premises or interest-free loans.

Similar programmes exist through Business Gateway in Scotland and the Welsh Government's Business Wales programme.

6. Finding the right premises for your business

There's more to choosing suitable business premises than picking a property that "looks nice". The space must match your business model, meet customers' needs, fit your budget and support your future plans.

Here's a detailed guide to make the search as effective and stress-free as possible.

Work out your needs first

Before you even start looking for somewhere to locate your business, be clear on what you actually need.

Ask yourself the following questions:

  • Functionality: Do I need customer-facing space, production space, storage or a combination?

  • Size: How much space do I realistically need for what the business does currently? And will that change in 12 months' to two years' time?

  • Accessibility: Do I need disabled access? Delivery bays? Car parking spaces?

  • Operating hours: Will I be open during the day, at evenings, at weekends?

  • Technology: Does the property require a strong broadband connection, kitchen facilities, specialised equipment?

Make a detailed checklist of non-negotiable vs. "nice-to-have" features before viewing properties.

Start your search: Where to look

There are several places you can find business premises:

  • Commercial property agents – examples include Savills, Knight Frank, local agents.

  • Online property portals – such as Rightmove Commercial, Zoopla Commercial, LoopNet.

  • Local councils – many have units available for start-ups, often at discounted rates.

  • Networking – industry groups or local chambers of commerce often hear about properties before they're listed.

  • Direct approach – if you spot an empty shop or office, contact the landlord or managing agent directly.

Even if you use a commercial agent, it's good to get into a regular habit of doing your own online checks. Premises in prime locations can go quickly.

What to check when visiting a site

Once you've shortlisted a few options, visit the properties with a list of key questions and things to inspect:

  • Location: Is there enough footfall? Do customers have easy access?

  • Condition: Are there any signs of damp, poor wiring or structural issues?

  • Utilities: Are broadband, electricity, gas and water available and sufficient for what you'd need?

  • Legal matters: Does the property already have fire exits, emergency lighting and disabled access?

  • Neighbouring businesses: Will they help or hinder your trade? Are they complementary to what you do, or competition?

  • Planning use: Does the current planning permission match how you intend to use the space or will you need a change?

  • Parking and transport links: Crucial for customer access and employees' convenience.

Take plenty of photos during visits – it's easy to forget details when comparing different properties later.

Negotiating the best deal

When you've found premises that seem ideal, now's the time to negotiate. Although commercial property may seem less flexible than residential, there's often room for discussion.

Here are some key areas to negotiate.

  • Rent: Lower base rent or rent-free periods

  • Lease terms: Shorter fixed terms, with options to break or renew

  • Fit-out contributions: Landlords may pay toward refurbishment works

  • Service charges: A cap (limit) on yearly increases

  • Business rates: Can the landlord claim small business rate relief and pass the savings onto you?

Always involve a solicitor before signing anything. And, ideally, use one who has plenty of experience with commercial leases.

Consider how you'll grow in the future

Don't just think about what you need now – think ahead:

  • Will the space allow you to hire more staff?

  • Will you need more storage or bigger customer areas later?

  • Are there options to expand both in the building and the local area?

It's better to slightly "overbuy" space than to be forced to move too soon because you outgrew it.

Useful resources for UK entrepreneurs

  • Land Registry: Check ownership records if dealing directly with landlords.

  • Planning Portal: Confirm property use classes and planning restrictions.

  • Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs): Now incorporated into local authorities, they can offer advice on finding and funding premises.

  • Business Debtline: Free advice on managing commercial leases and obligations if cash flow gets tight later.

 

A young black female owner on the shop floor of a clothes shop, using a digital tablet to check stock 

7. Setting up and operating from your new premises

Before you can begin trading or working from your new location, you need to set up the space properly, check that it's keeping to the law and ready it for staff, customers or production.

Here's a straightforward guide to getting operational.

Registering and informing authorities

Depending on the type of business you run, you may need to do the following:

  • Update your business address with HMRC and Companies House (if you're a limited company).

  • Tell your local council if you're opening certain types of businesses (for example, food outlets, salons, childcare providers).

  • Apply for any licences you need (such as an alcohol licence, music licence or special treatments licence).

Get all your registrations done early, as councils and agencies can take several weeks to process applications.

Setting up utilities and services

Make sure key services are ready before your first day:

  • Electricity

  • Gas (if you need it)

  • Water and waste management

  • Broadband and phone lines

  • Security alarms and CCTV (if necessary)

Compare business utility providers separately from residential ones – you may be eligible for tariffs that are offered only to businesses.

Fitting out the premises

The fit-out stage turns your premises from an empty space into a functional and branded site. Consider these points:

  • Layout and accessibility (especially for disabled customers and staff)

  • Branding elements like signs, window displays and interior design

  • Fire safety standards (alarms, extinguishers, clear exits)

  • Workspaces (desks, shelving, seating)

  • Customer areas (waiting areas, changing rooms, reception desks)

You may need building regulations approval for significant fit-out works – check with your local council.

Hiring or relocating staff

If you're scaling up your team, you'll need to update employees' contracts if their work location changes.

You must also carry out new health and safety risk assessments and make sure staff are appropriately trained (especially for fire safety and equipment use).

If you're hiring locally, consider advertising via Jobcentre Plus or local recruitment agencies.

Insurance and meeting legal standards

Before you open, make sure you've arranged all the types of business insurance you need:

  • Employer's liability insurance (mandatory if you're hiring staff)

  • Public liability insurance

  • Buildings and contents insurance

  • Product liability insurance (if selling goods)

Also check you've completed a fire risk assessment, had electrical systems tested (including PAT testing for appliances) and displayed your health and safety poster (a legal requirement!).

Preparing for launch day

Your opening should make a strong first impression. Plan for the following:

  • A soft launch or "friends and family" event to get feedback

  • Press releases to local newspapers or websites

  • Promotions to drive footfall – discounts, loyalty offers, competitions

  • Updating Google Business Profile with your new address

  • Social media campaigns to generate buzz

On your first full day in your premises, you should walk round the premises to check everything's set up.

Test fire alarms and security systems and brief staff (if you have them) on emergency procedures. Display any licences you might have and make sure customer service areas are clean and welcoming.

8. Common mistakes to avoid

Moving into your first business premises is exciting, but it also comes with risks.

Even experienced entrepreneurs sometimes make costly mistakes when choosing, setting up or managing their premises.

Here are some of the most common pitfalls – and how you can avoid them to make sure your move is a success.

Choosing a location based on price alone

It's tempting to go for the cheapest rent you can find, especially if you're watching cash flow closely. But a cheap property in the wrong location can seriously hurt your business.

Examples of problems

  • Low footfall, which means fewer customers

  • Poor transport links making it harder for staff or suppliers to get to you

  • A lack of visibility affecting brand awareness

  • Safety concerns in less desirable areas

Try to balance what you can afford with the key things that make a business viable. Always consider foot traffic, accessibility, parking and the local demographic when choosing premises.

Overcommitting on long leases

Signing a long-term lease (five years or more) might secure you favourable rental terms, but it can be risky – especially if your business model or the market changes.

Risks include:

  • being stuck with a space that no longer suits your needs

  • financial strain if your revenue drops

  • the costs and legal barriers involved with breaking the lease early

Where possible, negotiate a break clause into your lease (for example, after two or three years) to give yourself flexibility.

Underestimating hidden costs

Many entrepreneurs budget for rent and basic utilities but forget about extra costs like:

  • service charges

  • business rates

  • repairs and maintenance costs

  • security system upgrades

  • fit-out and refurbishment costs

  • VAT on rent (if the landlord has opted to charge it)

Always ask for a full breakdown of the costs associated with a property and budget an extra 10% to 15% for unexpected expenses.

Failing to review lease terms properly

Commercial leases are complex legal documents. Small clauses can have a huge impact – for example, you might unknowingly agree to repair structural issues or to return the property to a certain state at the end of the lease (known as a dilapidations liability).

Never sign a lease without first having it reviewed by a solicitor who has experience in commercial property. Spending a little upfront on legal advice can save you thousands of pounds later.

Ignoring planning permissions and use classes

As we mentioned earlier, different activities require different use classes under UK planning law.

Many new business owners assume they can simply move into a space and start trading – but that's not always the case.

Examples:

  • You can't run a takeaway from a premises classified as retail without applying for a change of use.

  • Setting up a gym in an office block could require special permissions.

Always check the existing planning designation with the local authority, and set aside time and money if you need to make a change of use application.

Skipping due diligence on the site

Doing "due diligence" means thoroughly researching and assessing a property to make sure it's up to standard (legally and operationally) before you commit to leasing or buying it.

A beautiful property might hide serious issues. Common problems that people overlook include:

  • insufficient electrical capacity for business equipment

  • an inadequate number of fire exits

  • outdated heating or ventilation systems

  • structural defects

If you're buying premises, hire a surveyor to carry out a commercial property survey. If you're leasing, conduct a thorough inspection yourself at the very least.

Poor planning for launch

You've secured the premises – great! But failing to plan your opening properly can lead to a slow, disappointing start. This might include, for example:

  • doing no local marketing

  • forgetting to update Google Maps/business directories

  • a lack of signage

  • failing to train staff properly for opening

Treat your launch like an event. Build buzz beforehand, offer launch promotions and make sure everything is ready for customers on day one.

Avoiding these common mistakes can save you enormous amounts of time, stress and money – and set you up for a smooth, successful transition into your new entrepreneurship premises.

Final thoughts

Taking the leap into business premises is one of the most exciting – and challenging – steps you'll make.

Whether you're an online seller branching out or a new start-up launching with a physical base from the outset, the right space can transform your business's potential for growth, customer engagement and long-term success.

But as we've covered, there's more to securing premises than picking a location and signing a lease. It involves careful planning, legal due diligence, financial preparation and a strong understanding of what your business needs to operate – both now and in the future.

By approaching the process strategically, securing professional advice when needed and keeping customer experience at the heart of your decisions, you'll be well positioned to thrive in your new space.

And remember: your business premises aren't just walls and a roof – they're a powerful asset for building your brand, serving your community and turning your entrepreneurial vision into reality.

Relevant resources

Enterprise Nation has helped thousands of people start and grow their businesses. Led by founder, Emma Jones CBE, Enterprise Nation connects you to the resources and expertise to help you succeed.

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